Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises

Step aboard for an unforgettable journey through history as your family cruises through the impressive Flight of Five locks on the Erie Canal. Kids will be amazed watching the boat rise and fall 49 feet through this engineering wonder, while learning about the canal that helped build America,it's like a living history lesson combined with a unique boat adventure that beats any textbook!

• ✓Experiencing the boat rising and lowering through five connected locks,a total of 49 feet
• ✓Seeing the massive lock gates open and close up close
• ✓Learning about 19th-century engineering and canal history through narrated tours
• ✓Viewing the impressive stone walls and original 1800s construction
• ✓Passing under historic bridges and through the only uphill flight of locks on the Erie Canal

1. 1.Arrive 20-30 minutes early to secure good seating,grab spots on the upper deck for the best views of the locks in action
2. 2.Bring layers and light jackets even in summer, as it can get breezy on the water and cooler in the shaded lock chambers
3. 3.Visit the restroom before boarding since facilities on the boat are limited, especially for younger children
4. 4.Encourage kids to watch from different vantage points as the water levels change,it makes the engineering aspect more tangible
5. 5.Download the Erie Canal history for kids beforehand or pick up the educational materials to help children appreciate what they're seeing

Weekday mornings in late spring or early fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and smaller crowds. Summer weekends can be busy with tour groups, so booking the earliest cruise available gives you a more intimate experience with better photo opportunities.

Cruises run seasonally (typically May through October) and advance reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends. There's onsite parking, and while snacks may be available onboard, bringing water bottles and light snacks for kids is smart for the 2-hour journey.

Operating season typically runs May through October, weather permitting. The attraction is closed during winter months. Early season (May-June) offers beautiful spring scenery, while fall foliage in September-October provides stunning backdrops. Summer is peak season with the most frequent departures but also largest crowds.

Try Shamus Restaurant just a few blocks away for classic American fare and a kids' menu, or head to Lake Effect Ice Cream on Main Street for post-cruise treats that kids will love.